SHANNON, Ireland, 13 October 2016 — GE Capital Aviation Services Limited (GECAS), the commercial aircraft leasing arm of GE, today announced delivery of a new, leased Airbus A320neo to Avianca Brasil to expand and modernize the carrier’s fleet.

The aircraft is the first in the Americas powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines. CFM International is a joint venture between GE and Safran Aircraft Engines.

The Airbus A320neo aircraft is one of eight scheduled for delivery to Avianca Brasil in 2016 and 2017. All eight are part of GECAS’ existing order book with Airbus.

“We are excited about this delivery to Avianca Brasil, especially knowing the immediate benefit from the CFMI LEAP engines to the airline in terms of lower fuel consumption," said Alec Burger, president and CEO of GECAS. "This further contributes to their continued success.”

Avianca Brasil operates a fleet of nearly 40 aircraft to more than 20 destinations in Brazil and Colombia.